Why Is RSO So Powerful?
By Jeff Eckenrode
Image credit: Zach Reiner
Quick Answer: RSO (Rick Simpson Oil) is so powerful because it's a full-spectrum cannabis extract with 60–90% THC, plus cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other plant compounds working together via the entourage effect. Made by soaking cannabis in ethanol and evaporating the solvent, it's one of the most potent and therapeutically versatile cannabis products available.
RSO—short for Rick Simpson Oil—has become one of the most well-known and widely used cannabis extracts, especially among medical cannabis users.
Celebrated for its strong effects and wide range of applications, RSO is known for being incredibly potent. But what exactly makes RSO so powerful? And why do so many people turn to it for relief?
If you’ve ever wondered what sets RSO apart from other cannabis concentrates, then you’re in the right place!
Let’s break down what RSO is, how it’s made, and why it delivers such intense effects.
Image credit: Medizin Las Vegas
What is RSO?
RSO is a full-extract cannabis oil named after Canadian cannabis activist Rick Simpson, who originally created it as part of his personal cancer treatment regimen.
Unlike other concentrates that isolate specific cannabinoids like THC or CBD, RSO is made using the entire cannabis plant. This includes cannabinoids, terpenes, flavinoids, fats, chlorophyll, and other naturally occurring compounds.
The result? A thick, dark oil that packs a powerful punch—both in potency and therapeutic potential.
Image credit: Ryan Lange
RSO and Full-Spectrum Effects
One of the key reasons RSO is so powerful is that it’s a full-spectrum extract. That means it contains the full range of chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant—not just THC.
These compounds work together through what’s known as the entourage effect—a theory that cannabinoids and terpenes produce stronger, more balanced effects when consumed together rather than in isolation.
In short, RSO’s strength comes not just from high THC content, but from how all of the plant’s compounds combine to enhance one another.
Image credit: Diyahna Lewis
RSO’s Potent THC Content
RSO typically contains very high levels of THC—often 60–90% or more.
This is significantly higher than what you’d find in most cannabis flower (which averages around 15–25% THC) or even some concentrates.
This makes RSO especially effective for users seeking relief from severe symptoms such as chronic pain, insomnia, inflammation, or appetite loss.
Because of this high potency, new users are encouraged to start with very small doses—often just a grain-of-rice-sized amount.
Image credit: RUNGROJ YONGRIT
How RSO is Made
Another reason RSO is so powerful lies in how it’s made.
RSO is traditionally made by soaking cannabis flower in a strong solvent, like ethanol, to extract the plant’s medicinal compounds.
After soaking, the solvent is slowly evaporated, leaving behind a thick, tar-like oil rich in cannabinoids and other compounds.
Unlike more refined extracts (like distillate), RSO retains many of the raw plant’s natural materials, which contributes to its strength and full-body effects.
Because RSO uses the whole plant, it captures not only THC and CBD but also lesser-known cannabinoids like CBN, CBG, and others that may contribute to its powerful effects.
Image credit: The Hemp Mine
RSO and Medical Use
RSO is most commonly associated with medical cannabis treatment, and for good reason.
Its potency, full-spectrum composition, and versatility make it a popular choice for individuals managing conditions like:
Chronic pain
Cancer and chemotherapy side effects
Insomnia
Multiple sclerosis
Crohn’s disease
PTSD
It can be taken orally, applied topically, or infused into food—making it one of the most flexible cannabis products available.
Tolerance and Dosing with RSO
Because of its strength, RSO should be approached with caution—especially for beginners.
Many medical users follow a specific dosing regimen, starting with tiny doses and gradually increasing over time as the body builds tolerance. This helps avoid overwhelming effects while still experiencing the benefits of the oil.
Even experienced cannabis users may find RSO’s effects to be stronger and longer-lasting than expected.
Where Can I Find RSO products?
Whether you’re shopping online or in Redmond, we’re here to help you find what you need, when you need it. That includes RSO!
Click on our online menu link below to see our current availability.
FAQ Why Is RSO So Powerful?
What makes RSO stronger than regular cannabis flower or other concentrates?
RSO packs a double punch — extremely high THC content (typically 60–90%) combined with a full spectrum of other cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant compounds all working together. Most cannabis flower averages just 15–25% THC, and even many concentrates isolate only specific cannabinoids. RSO retains everything from the whole plant, amplifying its effects through the entourage effect. It's one of the most potent cannabis products you can find in a dispensary.
What is the entourage effect and why does it make RSO more effective?
The entourage effect is the theory that cannabinoids and terpenes produce stronger, more balanced effects when consumed together rather than in isolation. RSO is a textbook example — it contains not just THC and CBD but also minor cannabinoids like CBN and CBG, plus terpenes and flavonoids, all reinforcing each other's effects. This synergy is a big part of why RSO delivers such deep, full-body effects that go beyond what raw THC content alone would suggest.
How is RSO made and why does the production method affect its potency?
RSO is traditionally made by soaking cannabis flower in ethanol, which pulls out the plant's full range of compounds. The solvent is then slowly evaporated, leaving behind a thick, dark, tar-like oil. Unlike more refined extracts like distillate — which strip out most compounds to isolate pure THC — RSO retains chlorophyll, fats, and all of the plant's natural materials alongside the cannabinoids. That whole-plant composition is a direct contributor to RSO's strength and full-body effect profile.
Is RSO good for medical cannabis users?
RSO has become one of the most popular products among medical cannabis users for good reason. Its high potency, full-spectrum composition, and flexibility make it particularly well-suited for managing conditions like chronic pain, insomnia, inflammation, chemotherapy side effects, PTSD, and more. It can be taken orally, applied topically, or infused into food — making it one of the most versatile medical cannabis options available. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical use guidance.
How much RSO should a beginner take?
Start incredibly small — a dose the size of a grain of rice is the standard recommendation for first-time RSO users. RSO's potency means even experienced cannabis consumers can be caught off guard by its strength and duration. Many medical users follow a structured regimen of very small doses gradually increased over time as tolerance builds. There's no rush — starting low and going slow is always the right approach with RSO.
What's the difference between RSO and CBD oil or other cannabis tinctures?
RSO and CBD oil are very different products despite both being oils. CBD oil typically contains predominantly CBD with minimal or no THC, is highly refined, and is designed for mild wellness applications. RSO is a whole-plant, full-spectrum extract with very high THC content and a much more complex cannabinoid profile. It's significantly more potent and has a much stronger psychoactive effect. RSO is generally considered a medical-grade product, while CBD oil is more suitable for everyday wellness use.
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